Covid casts shadow on Eid shopping in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: With the conclusion of the holy month of Ramzan, the Eid-ul-Fitr is likely to be celebrated on Sunday. However, despite government announcing relaxation in lockdown, the shops including clothes stores, the famous markets surrounding historic Charminar wore a deserted look on Friday.

Even the business establishments which made sound profits in normal days failed to garner the footfalls it had expected in the last three to four days before the month concludes.

Earlier, starting from Madina market circle to Charminar the entire stretch used to be closed for vehicular movement in the last week of Ramzan and roads would be filled with thousands of street vendors, who are now struggling for survival.

"We are amongst the worst affected due to the pandemic. Even as Eid is near, there is no business. Forget new clothes, I hope that my family gets a good meal on that day," said Md Akram, who sells ladies items at Pathergatti.

While on other hand, in spite of the government permission to open shops based on odd even numbering, several shops chose to remain shut citing the campaign 'No to Eid Shopping' which has picked up pace.

In major market areas like Charminar, Laad Bazar, Pathergatti, Madina Market, Shalibanda, Hussainialam, Mallepally, Abida, Koti, Tolichowki, Golconda etc. not more than 40 per cent of shops have opened.

While several shop owners pasted a notice that the shop would be opened after Eid. "In the fight against Corona pandemic even the mosques have been shut for prayer congregations, so why to open shops?, said an owner of Akhter Collection in Laad Bazar.